Water Kefir: How to

Water kefir is a fermented beverage you can prepare by yourself at home using water kefir grains. Here are some of the qualities of this drink:

  • provide a good mix of probiotics (beneficial bacteria) and yeast

  • is low in sugar (the bacterias and enzymes broke down the sugar during the fermenting process)

  • is cheap to make (if handled properly the water kefir grains can live forever)

  • could be a great substitute for sodas (it can be flavored in many ways and even become naturally fizzy through a second fermentation)

IMG_6877_2.jpg

You will need a glass jar (1,5 liter or half gallon, preferably sterilised)

, a cheesecloth, a towel and a rubber band

IMG_6880_2.jpg

Add 40 gr (or 3 tbsp) of white sugar

You could use brown, but kefir grains prefer white.

IMG_6881_2.jpg

Add 1 dl (1/2cup) of hot water to the sugar and swirl the mixture to dissolve.

IMG_6885_2.jpg

Add about 1 liter (4 cups) of of room-temperature water.

Make sure the water is not too warm. It must be at room temperature, otherwise you will kill the kefir grains.

IMG_6886_2.jpg

Add 1/2 lemon without peel and pips and 1 or 2 dried figs

IMG_6890_2.jpg

Add 40 gr (or 3 tbsp) of kefir grains.

More is not better! Your grains needs enough sugar otherwise they will starve.

IMG_7097_2.jpg

Cover the jar with a cheesecloth and a rubber band or loosely with the lid.

It will keep out insects and dust.

IMG_7098_2.jpg

Leave on the counter for 24-48 hours with a room temperature around 68–78°F (20–25°C)

Put a towel to cover it from the light. Bacterias like darkness.

Or you can store it in a cupboard, then you won’t need the towel.

IMG_6910_2.jpg

At the end of the process, your fruits are on the top. You can take them out.

You can blend them in your next smoothie.

IMG_6915_2.jpg

Strain the water kefir grains through a strainer (ideally non metallic) pouring the liquid into bottles

IMG_6958_2.jpg

Add a airtight lid and leave on the counter for additional 1-3 days. Flavor it if wanted

This second fermentation is optional. But this step will create carbonation. And you can add some fresh or dried fruits, a bit of fruit juice, ginger or sugar (or a combination). I usually keep it plain.

IMG_6960_2.jpg

Once you are satisfied with the taste, chill in the fridge and enjoy.

As the beverage continues to ferment, more gas is created. To avoid excessive pressure and in the worst case an explosion, try to burp the bottles once per day when at room temperature.

Rinse the grains with water and store them in fresh sugary water Put a tight lid on the container and place in the refrigerator. Change the water from time to time and add some sugar as well.

Repeat the process whenever you want!

Sources:

WellnessJessica Scilipotifood, drinks